James was born and raised in Orange County, California. James started modeling at the age of 5. She was an extra in The Gambler 4 starring Kenny Rogers, appeared in music videos and commercials, and did beauty pageants. She was a cheerleader in high school and graduated early. She then studied business and clothing design at a local community college. James was approached by a talent agency for her first experience with the adult industry. Her job was as a model passing out fliers at the Erotica LA convention in 2006. Later, she was approached by a friend to appear in an adult movie and her adult film career began.